Detachably engageable sports net system

ABSTRACT

A net system comprising a central hub having a main body including exposed upper and lower ends, and a plurality of longitudinal hub connectors in spaced relation to each other. The net system additionally includes a first and second net modules, each including a net having an upper end and a lower end, and a longitudinal net connector connected to the net. The longitudinal net connector includes an upper end adjacent the upper end of the net and a lower end adjacent the lower end of the net, with each longitudinal net connector extending continuously between its upper end and its lower end. The first and second longitudinal net connectors are configured to be detachably engageable to respective ones of the plurality of longitudinal hub connectors to facilitate connection of the first and second net modules to the hub connector.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.17/695,426, filed Mar. 15, 2022, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 17/515,920, filed Nov. 1, 2021, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/188,804, filed Mar.1, 2021, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,192,009, issued Dec. 7, 2021, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. Design application No. 29/745,311, filedAug. 5, 2020 and additionally claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 63/061,331, filed Aug. 5, 2020, and U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 63/076,218, filed Sep. 9, 2020, the contents of both ofwhich are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

STATEMENT RE: FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND 1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to a net system, and morespecifically, to a net system comprising a plurality of detachablyconnectable net modules.

2. Description of the Related Art

Games involving balls or other projectiles are very common. In manygames, the ball or projectile is played on a court or playing surfacehaving a net or barrier over which the projectile is propelled.Exemplary games may include volleyball, tennis, table tennis, badminton,or the like, wherein a ball, shuttlecock, or other projectile islaunched/volleyed over the nets. Such games provide enjoyment toindividuals of all ages.

In most of the above-mentioned games, the net is erected to divide theplaying surface into two areas which are “defended” by opposing teams.The net is generally supported by two support poles which are secured tothe ground in spaced relation to each other. Along these lines, manypublic locations, such as beaches, parks, schools, etc. includededicated areas for playing such games, wherein support poles arepermanently secured to the ground. For instance, it is common for abeach to include volleyball poles properly positioned to allow a user toattach his net thereto for playing beach volleyball. Likewise, publictennis courts commonly include support poles and a tennis net connectedto the support poles in an erected position for users to enjoy.

In addition to the foregoing net/barrier games, another common pastimeis the game of Four Square, which is typically played on a playingsurface without a barrier. The game is commonly played with aresilient/bouncy ball on a solid ground surface, such as concrete orasphalt. Boundaries for the playing surface are marked on the ground todefine a large square that is equally divided into four smaller squares.To begin play, players typically enter the large square and eachindividual player stands in one of the four interior play areas. Theball is served to begin a rally by hitting the ball by hand into any oneof the other boxes. More specifically, once the ball is served, the ballenters one of the other internal play zones. The ball is allowed tobounce once, and then the player in that box must strike the ball suchthat it may bounce within another interior box before the ball bouncesagain. The rally continues by players striking and returning the ball toother internal play boxes until a player is unable to successfullyreturn the ball to bounce within another player's box.

One of the deficiencies of conventional net/barrier games is that theassociated net/barrier apparatus may be difficult to assemble and thensubsequently take down and store. Accordingly, various aspects of thepresent disclosure address this particular need, as will be discussed inmore detail below.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, there isprovided a net system comprising a first net module including a firstspool, a first net, and a first connector connected to the first net,with the first net being retractably connected to the first spool suchthat the first net defines an extended length as a distance between thefirst spool and the first connector. The first net is transitionalrelative to the first spool between an extended position and a retractedposition, with the extended length increasing as the first nettransitions from the retracted position toward the extended position.The net system additionally includes a second net module including asecond spool, a second net, and a second connecter connected to thesecond net, with the second net being retractably connected to thesecond spool such that the second net defines an extended length as adistance between the second spool and the second connector. The secondnet is transitional relative to the second spool between an extendedposition and a retracted position, with the extended length increasingas the second net transitions from the retracted position toward theextended position. The first connector is connectable to the secondconnector to detachably connect the first net module to the second netmodule.

The first net connector may include a wall disposed about a centralaxis, with the wall having an outer surface, an inner surface defining acenter chamber, and a plurality of connector openings. Each connectoropening may extend from the outer surface toward the inner surface. Theplurality of connector openings may include an array of second connectoropenings and an array of third connector openings separate from thearray of second connector openings. The array of second connectoropenings may be circumferentially spaced from the array of thirdconnector openings by at least ninety degrees.

The first connector may include an opening and the second connector mayinclude a hook selectively insertable within the opening to connect thesecond connector to the first connector.

The net system may additionally include a first pole connectable to thefirst spool and a second pole connectable to the second spool.

The net system may further comprise a first housing connected to thefirst spool, with the first housing defining a cavity sized to receive aretracted portion of the first net gathered around the first spool. Asecond housing may be connected to the second spool, with the secondhousing defining a cavity sized to receive a retracted portion of thesecond net gathered around the second spool.

The first housing may include a slot formed therein, with the slot beingsized to allow for passage of the first net therethrough. The secondhousing may also include a slot formed therein, with the slot beingsized to allow for passage of the second net therethrough.

The first spool may be rotatable in a first direction to facilitatetransition of the first net from the extended position toward theretracted position and a second direction to facilitate transition ofthe first net from the retracted position toward the extended position.The net system may also include a first spring coupled to the firstspool to bias the first spool to rotate in the first direction.

The net system may additionally include a first locking mechanismoperatively engageable with the first spool and selectively transitionalbetween a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. The firstlocking mechanism may be configured to prevent rotation of the firstspool in the first direction when the first locking mechanism is in thelocked configuration. The first spool may be unhindered by the firstlocking mechanism when the first locking mechanism is in the unlockedconfiguration.

The first and second connectors may include complementary hooks andloops fasteners.

The net system may also include a third net module including a thirdspool, a third net, and a third connector connected to the third net.The third net may be retractably connected to the third spool such thatthe third net defines an extended length as a distance between the thirdspool and the third connector. The third net may be transitionalrelative to the third spool between an extended position and a retractedposition, with the extended length increasing as the third nettransitions from the retracted position toward the extended position.The third connector may be configured to be detachably engageable to oneof the first and second connectors.

The net system may also include a fourth net module including a fourthspool, a fourth net, and a fourth connector connected to the fourth net.The fourth net may be retractably connected to the fourth spool suchthat the fourth net defines an extended length as a distance between thefourth spool and the fourth connector. The fourth net may betransitional relative to the fourth spool between an extended positionand a retracted position, with the extended length increasing as thefourth net transitions from the retracted position toward the extendedposition. The fourth connector may be configured to be detachablyengageable to one of the first and second connectors in spaced relationto the third connector.

The first net and the second net may extend outward relative to acentral axis when the first connector is connected to the secondconnector. The first net module and the second net module may beconfigured to be supported above a ground surface independent of asupport at the central axis.

According to another embodiment, there is provided an add-on net systemconfigured for use with an existing net. The add-on net system includesa hub configured to be placeable on the existing net, and a first netmodule including a first spool, a first net, and a first connectorconnected to the first net. The first connector is detachably engageablewith the hub, and the first net is retractably connected to the firstspool such that the first net defines an extended length as a distancebetween the first spool and the first connector. The first net istransitional relative to the first spool between an extended positionand a retracted position, with the extended length increasing as thefirst net transitions from the retracted position toward the extendedposition. The add-on net system additionally includes a second netmodule including a second spool, a second net, and a second connecterconnected to the second net. The second connector is detachablyengageable with the hub. The second net is retractably connected to thesecond spool such that the second net defines an extended length as adistance between the second spool and the second connector, with thesecond net being transitional relative to the second spool between anextended position and a retracted position. The extended lengthincreases as the second net transitions from the retracted positiontoward the extended position.

The hub may include a first face, an opposing second face, and a slotextending into the hub from the first face toward the second face, withthe slot being sized to accommodate passage of the existing net.

The hub may include a pair grooves formed therein in opposed relation toeach other. The pair of grooves may be configured to receive respectiveones of the first connector and the second connector. The hub mayinclude a pair of opposed end faces, and the pair of grooves may eachextend from one of the pair of opposed end faces toward the other of thepair of opposed end faces. Each of the pair of grooves may terminate inspaced relation to the pair of opposed end faces to define a shoulder.

The hub may additionally include a slot formed therein, with the slotextending diametrically through the hub such that the pair of groovesare on opposite sides of the slot.

According to another embodiment, there is provided a net systemcomprising a central hub having a main body extending along alongitudinal axis with the main body having an exposed upper end and anopposing exposed lower end. The main body additionally includes aplurality of longitudinal hub connectors in spaced relation to eachother, with each longitudinal hub connector having an upper end adjacentthe upper end of the main body and a lower end adjacent the lower end ofthe main body. Each longitudinal hub connector extends continuouslybetween its upper end and its lower end. The net system additionallyincludes a first net module including a first net having an upper endand a lower end, and a first longitudinal net connector connected to thefirst net. The first longitudinal net connector includes an upper endadjacent the upper end of the first net and a lower end adjacent thelower end of the first net, with each first longitudinal net connectorextending continuously between its upper end and its lower end. The netsystem further includes a second net module including a second nethaving an upper end and a lower end, and a second longitudinal netconnector connected to the second net. The second longitudinal netconnector includes an upper end adjacent the upper end of the second netand a lower end adjacent the lower end of the second net, with eachsecond longitudinal net connector extending continuously between itsupper end and its lower end. The first and second longitudinal netconnectors are configured to be detachably engageable to respective onesof the plurality of longitudinal hub connectors to facilitate connectionof the first and second net modules to the hub connector.

Each longitudinal hub connector may include a zipper connector, thefirst longitudinal net connector may include a zipper connector, and thesecond longitudinal net connector may include a zipper connector.

The main body may be cylindrical in shape and define a central openingextending from the exposed upper end to the exposed lower end.

The main body and the first net may be sized such that when the mainbody is connected to the first net portion, the upper end of the mainbody is coplanar with the upper end of the first net and the lower endof the main body is coplanar with the lower end of the first net.

The main body may be configured to be disposable in tension whenconnected to both the first net and the second net. The main body may beformed of a flexible material.

According to another embodiment, there is provided a net systemcomprising a central hub having a plurality of longitudinal hubconnectors in spaced relation to each other. Each longitudinal hubconnector includes an upper end and a lower end, with each longitudinalhub connector extending continuously between its upper end and its lowerend. The net system further includes a plurality of net modules, witheach net module having a net and a longitudinal net connector connectedto the net. Each longitudinal net connector is detachably engageable toa respective one of the plurality of longitudinal hub connectors.

The central hub may include an upper end and an opposing lower end. Eachnet module may include an upper end and an opposing lower end. Thecentral hub and the plurality of net modules may be configured such thatthe upper end of each net module is coplanar with the upper end of thecentral hub when each net module is connected to the central hub, andthe lower end of each net module is coplanar with the lower end of thecentral hub when each net module is connected to the central hub.

The plurality of longitudinal hub connectors may include threelongitudinal hub connectors.

The plurality of longitudinal hub connectors may include fourlongitudinal hub connectors.

Each longitudinal hub connector may include a zipper connector.

According to yet another embodiment, there is provided a net systemcomprising a first net module including a first net having an upper endand a lower end. The net system additionally includes a hub connectorportion integrally connected to the first net. The hub connector portionincludes a plurality of longitudinal hub connectors in spaced relationto each other, with each longitudinal hub connector having an upper endadjacent the upper end of the first net and a lower end adjacent thelower end of the first net. Each longitudinal hub connector extendscontinuously between its upper end and its lower end. The net systemadditionally includes a second net module including a second net havingan upper end and a lower end, and a second longitudinal net connectorconnected to the second net. The second longitudinal net connectorincludes an upper end adjacent the upper end of the second net and alower end adjacent the lower end of the second net, with the secondlongitudinal net connector extending continuously between its upper endand its lower end. with the second longitudinal net connector beingconfigured to be detachably engageable to a respective one of theplurality of longitudinal hub connectors to facilitate connection of thesecond net module to the first net module.

The net system may include a third net module including a third nethaving an upper end and a lower end, and a third longitudinal netconnector connected to the third net. The third longitudinal netconnector may include an upper end adjacent the upper end of the thirdnet and a lower end adjacent the lower end of the third net. The thirdlongitudinal net connector may extend continuously between its upper endand its lower end. The third longitudinal net connector may beconfigured to be detachably engageable to a respective one of theplurality of longitudinal hub connectors to facilitate connection of thethird net module to the first net module concurrently with the secondnet module.

The net system may also include a fourth net module including a fourthnet having an upper end and a lower end, and a fourth longitudinal netconnector connected to the fourth net. The fourth longitudinal netconnector may include an upper end adjacent the upper end of the fourthnet and a lower end adjacent the lower end of the fourth net. The fourthlongitudinal net connector may extend continuously between its upper endand its lower end. The fourth longitudinal net connector may beconfigured to be detachably engageable to a respective one of theplurality of longitudinal hub connectors to facilitate connection of thefourth net module to the first net module concurrently with the secondnet module and the third net module.

The hub connector portion may include a first surface and an opposingsecond surface, with the plurality of longitudinal hub connectors beingconnected to the first surface.

The plurality of longitudinal hub connectors may be connected torespective surfaces of the hub connector portion.

The present disclosure will be best understood by reference to thefollowing detailed description when read in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of the various embodimentsdisclosed herein will be better understood with respect to the followingdescription and drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is an upper perspective view of one embodiment of a four-sidednet apparatus in an extended configuration;

FIG. 2 is an upper perspective view of the net apparatus of FIG. 1 ,with the net apparatus having been transitioned to a retractedconfiguration;

FIG. 3 is an upper perspective view of a base module used in the netapparatus;

FIG. 4 is an upper perspective view of an auxiliary module used in thenet apparatus;

FIG. 4A is a partial side view of a user engaging a locking mechanismfor locking/unlocking a spool attached to a net segment;

FIG. 4B is a top cross sectional view of the locking mechanism depictedin FIG. 4 ;

FIG. 5 is an upper perspective view of the net apparatus havingconnectors fitted with complementary hook and loop material;

FIG. 6 is an upper perspective view of a net apparatus in a retractedconfiguration and arranged for deployment in a single planeconfiguration;

FIG. 7 is an upper perspective view of the net apparatus of FIG. 6 inthe extended configuration

FIG. 8 is an upper perspective view of another embodiment of anauxiliary module wherein the net segment is exposed when in theretracted position;

FIG. 9 is an upper perspective view of a base module wherein the netsegment is exposed when in the retracted position;

FIG. 10 is an alternative embodiment of a net apparatus including acenter pole having a base connector integrated therein and configured toconnect with multiple net modules;

FIG. 11 is an upper perspective view of another embodiment of an adaptorand a pair of net segments operatively connectable with a conventionalvolleyball net, the pair of net segments being shown as being disengagedfrom the adaptor;

FIG. 12 is an enlarged upper perspective view of the adaptor and netsegments depicted in FIG. 11 , with the net segments having beenpartially extended from their positions shown in FIG. 11 ;

FIG. 13 is an upper perspective view of another embodiment of a netsystem including zipper connectors on each net segment to facilitateattachment of the net segments;

FIG. 14 is another embodiment of net system including a central hubhaving zipper connectors for connecting to several net segments;

FIG. 15 is a top view of a net system including the central hub of FIG.14 detached from a pair of net segments;

FIG. 16 is a top view of a net system including the central hub of FIG.14 detached from three net segments;

FIG. 17 is a top view of a net system including the central hub of FIG.14 detached from four net segments;

FIG. 18 is another embodiment of a net system having a hub connectorinto a net segment;

FIG. 19 is a top view of a net system including the hub connector ofFIG. 18 detached from a single net segment;

FIG. 20 is a top view of a net system including the hub connector ofFIG. 18 detached from a pair of net segments;

FIG. 21 is a top view of a net system including a hub connector of FIG.18 detached from three net segments;

FIG. 22 is a top view of a net system including another embodiment of ahub connector integrated into a net segment and detached from threeother net segments; and

FIG. 23 is an enlarged view of the hub connector of FIG. 22 .

Common reference numerals are used throughout the drawings and thedetailed description to indicate the same elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appendeddrawings is intended as a description of certain embodiments of aretractable sports net and is not intended to represent the only formsthat may be developed or utilized. The description sets forth thevarious structure and/or functions in connection with the illustratedembodiments, but it is to be understood, however, that the same orequivalent structure and/or functions may be accomplished by differentembodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the scope ofthe present disclosure. It is further understood that the use ofrelational terms such as first and second, and the like are used solelyto distinguish one entity from another without necessarily requiring orimplying any actual such relationship or order between such entities.

Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for purposes ofillustrating a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, and arenot for purposes of limiting the same, there is depicted a selectivelydeployable sports net apparatus 10 having a plurality of interconnectednet segments 12. Each net segment 12 is attached to a connector 14 whichmay connect with at least one corresponding connector 14 of an adjacentnet segment 12. In this regard, several different combinations of netsegments 12 may be interconnected to divide a playing court into anumber of different playing zones. For instance, two net segments 12 maybe interconnected to divide the playing court into two zones. Three netsegments 12 may be interconnected to divide the playing court into threezones. Four net segments 12 may be interconnected to divide the playingcourt into four zones, and so forth.

Each net segment 12 may be retractably connected to a spool locatedwithin a respective housing 16, such that when the net segment 12 is notin use, the net segment 12 may be retracted within the housing 14.However, the net segment 12 may be extended out of the housing 14 todeploy the net segment 12 for use. Thus, the ability to extend andretract the net segments 12 relative to the housing 16 may allow forquick and easy setup and take down of the net apparatus 10. Furthermore,the ability to retract the net segment 12 within the housing 16 mayallow for convenient storage thereof. By retracting the net segment 12within the housing 16, the net segment 12 is less likely to snag orbecome entangled on nearby objects, such as when stored in a garage orthe trunk of a vehicle.

FIGS. 1 and 2 depict a net apparatus 10 having four net modules 18 thatmay be interconnected to each other over a playing court to divide theplaying court into equal quarters. Each module 18 may include a housing16, a net segment 12, and a connector 14. FIG. 1 shows the four netmodules 18 connected via their deployed net segments 12, while FIG. 2shows the four net modules 18 disconnected with each net segment 12having been retracted in a respective housing 16.

According to one embodiment, the net apparatus 10 includes a base module18 a and three auxiliary modules 18 b. FIG. 3 shows a base module 18 ain a retracted state, while FIG. 4 shows an auxiliary module 18 b in aretracted state. The primary distinction between the base module 18 aand the auxiliary modules 18 b relates to the respective connectors 14.In particular, the base module 18 a includes a base connector 14 a,while the auxiliary module 18 b includes an auxiliary connector 14 b. Aswill be explained in more detail below, the base connector 14 a may beconfigured to connect with several auxiliary connectors 14 b, while eachauxiliary connector 14 b may be configured to engage with a baseconnector 14 a. In other words, the base connector 14 a may not engagewith another base connector 14 a, and the auxiliary connectors 14 b maynot engage directly with other auxiliary connectors 14 b.

Each housing 16 may include a top wall 20 and a sidewall 22 extendingfrom the top wall 20 to define an interior cavity. The sidewall 22 mayinclude a slit 24 formed therein, which may extend axially along alength of the housing 16. The slit 24 may be in communication with theinterior cavity to allow for passage of the net segment 12 therethroughas the net segment 12 is transitioned between extended and retractedconfigurations. In one embodiment, the housing 16 defines a central axis26 about which the top wall 20 and sidewall 22 are disposed. The slit 24formed in the sidewall 24 may extend longitudinally in a generallyparallel direction relative to the central axis 26, and generallyperpendicular to the top wall 20.

Inside of each housing 16, there may be included a retraction mechanismwhich may be connected to the corresponding net segment 12. Forinstance, the retraction mechanism may include a spool 37 that isconnected to a spring, which urges the spool 37 to rotate in a firstdirection, e.g., a direction of retraction. The net segment 12 may beconnected to the spool 37, such that when the net segment 12 is in theretracted position, the net segment 12 is wound around the spool 37.Transitioning the net segment 12 from the retracted position toward theextended position may cause a portion of the net segment 12 to unwindfrom the spool 37 and extend out of the slit 24. In this regard, theinterconnection between the spring and the spool 37 may allow forrotation of the spool 37 in a second direction, e.g., a direction ofextension, when the net segment 12 is pulled out of the housing 16 by aforce having a magnitude that overcomes the biasing force. The biasingforce on imparted on the net segment 12 by the retraction mechanism maykeep the net segment 12 taut during use. As such, an undesirable saggynet may be mitigated by the retraction mechanism.

The retraction mechanism may be operatively associated with a lockingmechanism 27 which may lock the retraction mechanism in place to avoidundesired retraction (or possible extension) of the net segment 12.Referring now to FIGS. 4A and 4B, one embodiment of the lockingmechanism 27 includes a hand dial 29 that may be turned relative to thehousing 16 to either lock or unlock the locking mechanism 27. The handdial 29 may include a cylindrical wall that includes inner teeth orserrations 31 that are engageable with outer teeth or serrations 33formed on a gear 35 attached to the spool 37. The hand dial 29 may beselectively positionable relative to the gear 35 to bring the innerserrations 31 into engagement or out of engagement with the outerserrations 33. When the inner serrations 31 on the hand dial 29 areengaged with the outer serrations 33 of the gear 35, the lockingmechanism 27 is locked and the spool 37 may be prevented from rotating.Conversely, when the inner serrations 31 of the hand dial 29 aredisengaged from the outer serrations 33 of the gear 35, the lockingmechanism 27 may be unlocked and the spool 37 may freely rotate. Thehand dial 29 may be moveable along the central axis 26 (e.g., in anupward and downward motion when viewed from the perspective shown inFIG. 4A) to facilitate the selective engagement or disengagement. Aspring may be operatively connected to the hand dial 29 to bias the handdial 29 into the disengaged position, such that a user may be requiredto press on the hand dial 29 to move that hand dial 29 toward engagementwith the gear 35. It is also contemplated that the hand dial 29 may betwisted when pressed downwardly to bring the inner serrations 31 intoengagement with the outer serrations 33.

Although the foregoing describes the locking mechanism 27 as includingthe hand dial 29 and gear 35, other configurations of the lockingmechanism 27 may also be used without departing from the sprit and scopeof the present disclosure. For instance, the locking mechanism mayinclude a ratcheting gear connected to the spool, and a pawl thatinterfaces with the ratcheting gear. The configuration of the ratchetinggear and pawl may be such as to allow for generally unrestrictedrotation of the spool in the direction of extension, while preventingundesirable rotation of the spool in the direction of retraction. Thepawl may be moveable to a disengaged position relative to the ratchetinggear to allow for rotation in the first direction. Transition of thepawl from an engaged configuration to the disengaged configuration maybe facilitated by a manually actuated lever, switch, button, etc.,operatively coupled to the pawl, or via movement of the net segment 12.For instance, extension of the net segment 12 into a hyper-extendedposition may release the pawl from the ratcheting gear.

The net segment 12 may be retracted into its respective housing 16 whenthe external force (e.g., the pulling force) applied to the net segment12 in opposition to the retraction force may be decreased or removedentirely, e.g., if the user releases the net segment 12, the biasingforce causes the spool 37 to rotate in a direction which causesretraction of the net segment 12 around the spool 37.

Referring again specifically to FIGS. 3 and 4 , there is depicted anexemplary embodiment of the base connector 14 a, and auxiliary connector14 b, respectively. The base connector 14 a may include a hollowcylindrical body having a plurality of openings 28 formed therein. Eachopening 28 may extend from an outer surface to an inner surface and maybe generally elongate in shape. The openings 28 may be arranged invertical or longitudinal arrays or groupings, with the openings 28 of agiven array being aligned along a common axis. Each array mayaccommodate attachment with a corresponding auxiliary connector 14 b.Thus, by forming multiple arrays of openings 28 on a single baseconnector 14 a, attachment to multiple auxiliary connectors 14 b may befacilitated. In the exemplary embodiment, each array includes fiveopenings 28 at similar axial locations on the base connector 14 a. Inthis regard, from the perspective shown in FIG. 3 , a bottommost opening28 for each array is centered at a first circumferential height, anadjacent opening 28 in each array is centered at a secondcircumferential height, and so forth. The base connector 14 a shown inFIG. 3 includes three sets of arrays, spaced at 90 degrees, 180 degrees,and 270 degrees from the base net segment 12, which may accommodate afour-sided net apparatus 10 with net segments 12 at ninety-degree anglesto each other. However, any number of arrays may be included on the baseconnector 14 a without departing from the spirit and scope of thepresent disclosure. For instance, the base connector 14 a may includetwo (2) arrays spaced at 120 degrees and 240 degrees relative to thebase net segment 12, which may accommodate a three-sided net apparatus10 with net segments 12 at 120 degree angles to each other. It is alsocontemplated that the base connector 14 a may include several arrays toaccommodate a number of different net apparatus 10 configurations. Forinstance, the base connector 14 a may be configured to accommodate a netapparatus 10 including two net segments 12, three net segments 12, fournet segments 12, etc. In this regard, the base connector 14 a mayinclude arrays at 90 degrees, 120 degrees, 180 degrees, 240 degrees and270 degrees relative to the base net segment 12. The 90, 180, and 270degree arrays may be intended for a 4-sided configuration, while the 120and 240 degree arrays may be intended for a 3-sided configuration.However, it is understood that auxiliary net segments 12 may beconnected to any array, and thus, if a user wanted to create unequalplaying zones, the auxiliary net segments 12 may be connected tounequally spaced arrays.

The auxiliary connector(s) 14 b may be complementary to the baseconnector 14 a to facilitate detachable engagement therewith. In theexemplary embodiment, the auxiliary connector 14 a includes a series ofhooks 30 that may be received within a given array of openings 28 formedwithin the base connector 14 a. The hooks 30 may include a finger thatmay extend within the hollow interior of the base connector 14 a whenthe auxiliary connector 14 b is engaged with the base connector 14 a.The number of hooks 30 included on a given auxiliary connector 14 b maybe identical to the number of openings 28 in a given array on the baseconnector 14 a.

Although the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 3 and 4 includes openings 28formed on the base connector 14 a and hooks 30 formed on the auxiliaryconnector 14 b, it is contemplated that other embodiments may include areverse configuration, e.g., with the base connector 14 a includinghooks 30 and the auxiliary connector 14 b including openings 28.Moreover, it is contemplated that other mechanical connectors known bythose skilled in the art may also be used to connect the base connector14 a to the auxiliary connector 14 b. For instance, hook and loopfasteners (e.g., VELCRO™), magnets, snaps, tongue and groove connectorsmay also be used. FIG. 5 depicts an alternative embodiment showing anexample of hook and loop fasteners used to connect adjacent net segmentstogether. In particular, the base connector 14 a includes a cylindricalouter surface covered with hook and loop material, and the auxiliaryconnector 14 b may include one or more strips of complementary hook andloop material engageable with the base connector 14 a to facilitateconnection with the base connector 14 a.

Each housing 16 may be connected to a support pole 32 to elevate the netsegment 12 above the court or playing surface. The support pole 32 maybe detachably engageable to the housing 16, such as via threadedengagement, a removeable pin, or other detachable engagement mechanismsknown in the art. However, it is also contemplated that the support pole32 may be mounted more permanently to the housing 16, such as via anadhesive. Each support pole 32 may include an enlarged foot 34 toenhance stability of the net apparatus 10.

With the basic structure of the net apparatus 10 having been describedabove, the following discussion pertains to an exemplary use of the netapparatus 10. To set up the net apparatus 10, a user obtains the desirednumber of net modules 18 for the net apparatus 10. For instance, if afour-sided net apparatus 10 is desired, the user should obtain four netmodules 18, including one base module 18 a and three auxiliary modules18 b.

Once the required/desired number of net modules 18 are obtained, theuser extends the net segment 12 of the base module 18 a and the netsegment 12 of at least one auxiliary module 18 b. To extend the netsegments 12, the user may pull on the base connector 14 a and auxiliaryconnector 14 b, respectively, or any portion of the net segment 12 thatmay be extending out of the housing 16 to increase the distance betweenthe connector 14 and is respective housing 16. The extended net segments12 may be engaged by advancing the hooks 30 on the auxiliary connector14 b through respective openings 28 formed on the base connector 14 a.The user may connect any remaining auxiliary net module 18 b to the basemodule 18 a by extending the net segments 12 and engaging the auxiliaryconnector(s) 14 b to the base connector 14 a.

Although the foregoing describes extending the net segments 12 prior toengaging the connectors 14, it is understood that the opposite sequencemay occur. In particular, the connectors 14 may be engaged, and then thenet segments 12 may be extended.

With the net segments 12 extended and the connectors 14 engaged, theuser may position the net apparatus 10 over the playing surface, withthe support poles 32 being placed at the periphery of the playingsurface. The net apparatus 10 may be configured such that the netapparatus 10 may remain elevated above the playing surface with nocenter support pole. In this regard, there may be no support poleextending along a central axis, from which the net segments radiate. Inother words, there may be no support pole directly connected to the baseconnector 14 a and/or auxiliary connector(s) 14 b.

When the net apparatus 10 is assembled, the net apparatus 10 may be usedto play a game combining the features of conventional volleyball andfour square, as explained in U.S. Pat. No. 9,504,892, entitled GameApparatus and Method of Playing the Same, the contents of which areexpressly incorporated herein by reference.

To disassemble the net apparatus 10, the net segments 12 are retractedand the auxiliary connectors 14 b are disconnected from the baseconnector 14 a. When the net segments 12 are retracted, each connector14 may be moved closer to its corresponding housing and the net segments12 may be wound around the spool 37 or axle located within the housing16 to mitigate tangling of the net segments 12. It is contemplated thatthe auxiliary connectors 14 b may be disconnected from the baseconnector 14 a prior to retraction of the corresponding auxiliary netsegment 12 into the housing 16. Alternatively, the net segments 12 maybe retracted and then the auxiliary connectors 14 b may be disengagedfrom the base connector 14 a.

If the support poles 32 are detachable from the housings 16, the usermay detach the support poles 32 to facilitate storage of the netapparatus 10.

When the net apparatus 10 is taken down, the net modules 18 may beeasily stored within a vehicle, garage, storage shed, etc., with the netsegments 12 entirely or substantially contained within their respectivehousings 16. Snagging of the net segments 12 on adjacent equipment ismitigated by the containment of the net segments 12 within the housings16. As such, when the user wants to use the net apparatus 10 again, thenet apparatus 10 may remain in an easily deployable and ready to useconfiguration.

Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 9 , there is depicted another embodiment ofan auxiliary module 118 b (see FIG. 8 ) and a base module 118 a (seeFIG. 9 ), wherein the modules 118 a, 118 b are specifically configuredor adapted such that the net segment 112 of each module 118 a, 118 b maybe at least partially exposed or uncovered when the net segment 112 isin the retracted configuration. In this regard, it is contemplated thatthe modules 118 a, 118 b may be formed without a housing, oralternatively, a very minimal housing.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 8 , the auxiliary module 118 bincludes an upper body 119 b, a lower body 121 b, and a guide strap 123b extending between the upper body 119 b and the lower body 121 b. Theupper and lower bodies 119 b, 121 b depicted in FIG. 8 are cylindrical,although other shapes, such as quandrangular, triangular, etc., are alsocontemplated. The guide strap 123 may be rigid or flexible and mayassist in gathering the net segment 12 as it is retracted. A spool orrod may extend between the upper and lower bodies 119 b, 121 b and maybe connected to the net segment 112, which in turn, in connected to theauxiliary connector 114 b. The spool or rod may rotate relative to theupper and lower bodies 119 b, 121 b as the net segment 112 is extendedand retracted.

The base module 118 a shown in FIG. 9 is similar, in that it alsoincludes an upper body 119 a, a lower body 121 a, and a guide strap 123a extending between the upper body 119 a and the lower body 121 a. Aspool or rod may extend between the upper and lower bodies 119 a, 121 band may be connected to the net segment 112, which in turn, in connectedto the base connector 114 a. The spool or rod may rotate relative to theupper and lower bodies 119 a, 121 a as the net segment 112 is extendedand retracted.

Although the embodiments of the modules 118 a, 118 b, shown in FIGS. 8and 9 include a guide strap 123 a, b, it is contemplated that otherembodiments may be formed without a guide strap 123 a, b or a housing.In this regard, various embodiments may be formed without anythingextending between an upper housing, end cap or body, and a correspondinglower housing, end cap or body, except for a central spool around whichthe net segments 12 may gather as they are retracted.

Referring now to FIG. 10 , there is depicted another embodiment of a netapparatus 210 that includes a center pole 215 connectable to one or morenet modules 18 for supporting the net(s) above a playing surface. Eachof the net modules 18 included in the net apparatus 210 shown in FIG. 10are auxiliary net modules 18 b, described in more detail above. Thecenter pole 215 includes a base connector 214 from which a rod or shaft217 extends. The base connector 214 is similar in configuration to thebase connector 14 a described above, particularly in its ability toengage with the auxiliary connectors 14 b on the auxiliary net modules18 b. The rod or shaft 217 is connectable to the ground to position thebase connector 214 at approximately the same height as the auxiliaryconnectors 14 b on the net modules 18. Alternatively, the shaft 217 maybe connected to a foot or base plate which rests on the ground andallows the shaft 217 to extend upwardly from the ground.

The use of the center pole 215 may provide more central support to thenet apparatus 210, if so desired. In addition, the center pole 215 mayallow for use of the net apparatus 210 without a base net module 18 a.Thus, in the event a base net module 18 a becomes lost or damaged, acenter pole 215 may be used to connect multiple auxiliary net modules 18b. Accordingly, the center pole 215 may provide enhanced structuralsupport, as well as enhanced functional adaptability.

Although the embodiment depicted in FIG. 10 includes rod or shaft 217extending from the base connector 214 to support the base connector 214over the ground, it is contemplated that in other embodiments, the baseconnector 214 may be used without rod or shaft 217 such that when thebase connector 214 is attached to at least two net modules 18 b, thebase connector 214 may be supported above the ground due to theinterconnection to the net modules 18 b. In other words, when the baseconnector 214 is connected to the net modules 18 b, the tension in thenet modules 18 b may support the base connector 214 over the groundwithout anything extending directly below the base connector 214 (e.g.,independent of any additional support structure along a central axisdefined by the base connector 214).

It is further contemplated that the rod or shaft 217 may be detachablyengaged with the base connector 214 to allow for engagement between theshaft 217 and the base connector 214 when desired, and detachment of theshaft 217 from the base connector 214 when desired. For instance, it maybe desirable to have the shaft 217 engaged to the base connector 214when setting up the net apparatus 210 to ensure the net apparatus 210 isset up centrally over a playing court, and to minimize the number ofindividuals that may be required to set up the net apparatus 210 (e.g.,it may be possible for a single individual to set up the net apparatus210). However, after the net apparatus 210 has been assembled, thetension in the net modules 18 b may provide sufficient support to thebase connector 214, to allow for detachment of the shaft 217 from thebase connector 214. Removal of the shaft 217 from the base connector 215may remove a possible obstruction when playing with the net apparatus210. The detachable engagement may be facilitated via threadedinterconnection between the shaft 217 and the base connector 124, springdetent connection, friction fit, or other mechanical interconnectionsknown by those skilled in the art.

Referring now to FIGS. 11-12 , there is depicted another embodiment of amulti-sided net system 300 including a hub 302 specifically configuredand adapted to facilitate attachment of one or more net modules 304 toan existing volleyball net 306, badminton net, tennis net, or otherplanar sports nets known in the art. In this regard, for those usersalready in possession of an existing sports net 306, the hub 302 may bea useful add-on to enhance the overall utility of the existing sportsnet 306.

The hub 302 may be generally cylindrical in nature and define alongitudinal axis 308. The hub 302 includes a generally circular upperface 310, an opposing generally circular lower face 312, and an outersidewall 314 extending between the upper and lower faces 310, 312. Thehub 302 additionally comprises a pair of channels 316 extending into thehub 302 (e.g., radially inward) from the sidewall 314 and axially fromthe upper face 310 toward the lower face 312 in diametrically opposedrelation to each other in a direction that is generally parallel to thelongitudinal axis 308. Each channel 316 may terminate in spaced relationto the lower face 312 to define a shoulder 318, the importance of whichwill be described in more detail below. Although the exemplaryembodiment includes a pair of channels 316, it is contemplated that inother embodiments, the hub 302 may include a single channel 316 or morethan two channels 316, e.g., three, four, five, etc.

The hub 302 additionally includes a slot 320 extending from the lowerface 312 toward the upper face 310 along a plane that divides the hub302 into approximately two equal halves. The slot 320 is sized toreceive at least a portion of the existing volleyball net 306 to allowthe hub 302 to be slid over the top of the existing volleyball net 306.

The hub 302 is adapted to be used in connection with one or more netmodules 304, which may generally include a net segment 322 and a housing324, as described in more detail above. The net module 304 mayadditionally include a module connector 326 that is configured to beengageable with the hub 302. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11-12 ,the module connector 326 includes a rib sized to be slidably received ina respective channel 316 formed on the hub 302. Furthermore, the rib 326may be of a length such that when the rib 326 is completely insertedinto the channel 316, it contacts the shoulder 318, which may result inthe top of the net segment 322 being generally aligned with the top ofthe volleyball net 306.

With the basic structure of the hub 302 and net modules 304 having beendescribed, the following discussion relates to an exemplary use thereof.A user may setup the existing volleyball net 306 between a pair ofsupport poles in a conventional manner. Ideally, the volleyball net 306is taut or stretched to remove slack when attached to the support poles.

After the volleyball net 306 has been set up, the user may place the hub302 onto the volleyball net 306, preferably at a midsection ofvolleyball net 306. The hub 302 may be placed on the volleyball net 306by aligning the net 306 (e.g., the plane of the net) with the slot 320on the hub 302 and advancing the net 306 through the slot 320 until thehub 302 rests on the net 306. When the hub 302 is connected to the net306, the channels 316 on the hub 302 may be located on opposite sides ofthe net 306.

With the volleyball net 306 assembled, and the hub 302 being placed onthe volleyball net 306, the user may assemble the net modules 304. Inparticular, each net module 304 may include a support pole 328 that maybe placed in, or on, the ground. The net segment 322 may be extendedfrom its housing 324 and the module connector 326 may be advanced into arespective channel 316 on the hub 302. In particular, the moduleconnector 326 may advanced into the channel 316 until the moduleconnector 326 contacts, or rests against, the shoulder in the channel316. A biasing element or spring may impart a biasing force on the netsegment 322 that may create tension in the net segment 322 to keep thenet segment 322 taut when extended between the housing 324 and the hub302.

When both net segments 322 are connected to the hub 302, a four-sidednet assembly 300 may be collectively defined by the existing volleyballnet 306, and the pair of net modules 304. In particular, the volleyballnet 306 may define two-sides by the portions of the volleyball net 306extending on opposite sides of the hub 302. The other two-sides may bedefined by the net segments 322 of the net modules 324.

To disassemble the net assembly 300, the user removes the moduleconnectors 326 from their respective channels 316, and retracts the netsegments 322 into their housings 324. The hub 302 may be removed fromthe volleyball net 306 and the volleyball net 306 may be taken down.

Referring now to FIGS. 13-23 , there is depicted several embodiments ofnet systems which utilize zipper connectors to facilitate attachment ofseparate net segments together. Some embodiments include the zipperconnectors integrated into the net segment(s), while other embodimentsutilize a separate hub having zipper connectors connected thereto, whichis attachable to corresponding zipper connectors integrated into the netsegments. The use of zippers (or alternative longitudinal connectors)may allow for quick and easy attachment and detachment of the netsegments.

Referring now specifically to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 13 , thereis depicted a net system 400 including a pair of net segments 402, 403connectable to each other via cooperating zipper connectors 404. In moredetail, the net system 400 includes a first net module 406 including thefirst net segment 402 having a first zipper connector 404 extendingalong a longitudinal, distal edge of the first net segment 402. The netsystem 400 additionally includes a second net module 407 including thesecond net segment 403 having a second zipper connector 405 extendingalong a longitudinal, distal edge of the second net segment 403. Thefirst zipper connector 404 and the second zipper connector 405 may beselectively engageable with each other to connect the first net segment402 to the second net segment 403.

Referring now to FIG. 14 , there is depicted another embodiment of a netsystem 500 including a central hub 502 configured to facilitateconnection of several net modules 516. In more detail, the central hub502 may include a main body 504 extending along a longitudinal axis 506with the main body 504 having an exposed upper end 508 and an opposingexposed lower end 510. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 14 , the mainbody 504 is a cylindrical sleeve having an opening extending between theupper end 508 and the lower end 510. In this regard, although the mainbody 504 includes an opening which may be used to receive a centralsupport pole, it is understood that the use of a central support polemay not be required (e.g., the system may be configured for useindependent of a central support pole). In this regard, the nets and thecentral hub 502 may be supported over the ground solely with the use ofsupport poles at the outside of the net system 500. The main body 504may be formed of vinyl, plastic, rubber, fabric, or other materialsknown in the art. The central hub 502 additionally includes a pluralityof zipper connectors 512, e.g., longitudinal hub connectors, in spacedrelation to each other, with each zipper connector 512 having an upperend adjacent the upper end 508 of the main body 504 and a lower endadjacent the lower end 510 of the main body 504. Each zipper connector512 may extend continuously between its upper end and its lower end.

The exemplary embodiment of the central hub 502, there is depicted fourzipper connecters 512 connected to an outer surface of the cylindricalsleeve 504, with the four zipper connectors 512 being substantiallyequally spaced from each other, e.g., spaced by approximately 90degrees. Each zipper connector 512 may extend from the outer surface ofthe cylindrical sleeve 504 in a manner which allows for easy access andattachment to a corresponding zipper connector on a net module as willbe explained in more detail below.

The net system 500 additionally includes a first net module 516including a first net 518 having an upper end 520 and a lower end 522,and the first longitudinal net connector 514 (e.g., a zipper connector)connected to the first net 518. The first longitudinal net connector 514includes an upper end adjacent the upper end 520 of the first net 518and a lower end adjacent the lower end 522 of the first net 518, withthe first longitudinal net connector 514 extending continuously betweenits upper end and its lower end.

FIG. 14 shows the first longitudinal net connector 514 aligned with oneof the zipper connectors 512 on the hub 502, which when engaged witheach other via conventional zipper techniques, facilitatesinterconnection of the first net 518 to the hub 502.

FIG. 15 shows the net system 500 with both the first net module 516aligned with a zipper connector 512 on the central hub 502, along with asecond net module 516 aligned with a different zipper connector 512 onthe central hub 502. The second net module 516 is similar to the firstnet module 516 and includes a second net 518 having a secondlongitudinal net connector 514 (e.g., zipper connector) connected to thesecond net 518. It is contemplated that the second net 518 may beconnected to the central hub 502 to place the second net 518 in adiametrically opposed relation to the first net 518, such that the firstand second nets 518 are generally coplanar.

The main body 504, the first net 518, and the second net 518 may besized such that when the main body 504 is connected to the first net518, the upper end 508 of the main body 504 may be substantiallycoplanar with the upper end of the first net 518 and the lower end 510of the main body 504 is coplanar with the lower end of the first net518. The same may be true of any net 518 included in the system 500. Inthis regard, the sizing of the central hub 502 and the nets 518connected thereto may give the appearance of a unitary structure.

The main body 504 of the central hub 502 may be configured to bedisposable in tension when connected to a plurality of nets 518 and thesystem 500 is erected over the ground with the use of outer supportpoles. In this regard, the main body 504 may be formed of a flexiblematerial and may be flexed into a shape which accommodates the number ofnets 518 that are attached to the central hub 502. For instance, if onlytwo nets 518 are attached to the central hub 502 (see FIG. 15 ), thenthe main body may be tensioned toward two generally opposite directions.If three nets 518 are attached to the central hub 502 (see FIG. 16 ),then the main body 504 may be tensioned along three axes approximately120 degrees from each other, and if four nets 518 are attached to thecentral hub 502 (see FIG. 17 ), then the main body 504 may be tensionedalong four axes approximately 90 degrees from each other.

Referring now to FIGS. 18-21 , there is depicted a net system 600 thatis a minor variation from the net system 500 depicted in FIGS. 14-17 .In particular, the net system 600 includes a hub connector portion 602that is integrated into a net 604 and is configured to be attachable toone or more separate net segments 605, rather than having a standalonehub that is separate from all of the net segments.

The net system 600 includes a first net module 606 including a first net604 having an upper end 608 and a lower end 610. The net system 600additionally includes the hub connector portion 602 integrally connectedto the first net 604. The hub connector portion 602 may include flap orstrip of material connected to the first net 604 via stitches adhesives,mechanical fasteners, welding, or the like, and include a first surface612 and an opposing second surface 614, with a plurality of longitudinalhub connectors 616 (e.g., zipper connectors) being connected to thefirst surface 612 in spaced relation to each other, with eachlongitudinal hub connector 616 having an upper end adjacent the upperend 608 of the first net 604 and a lower end adjacent the lower end 610of the first net 604. Each longitudinal hub connector 616 extendscontinuously between its upper end and its lower end.

The first surface 612 of the hub connector portion 602 may be bendableor flexible to position the zipper connectors 616 relative to each otherto attach with respective net segments 605 extending in differentplanes. In this regard, the hub connector portion 602 may be flexed toposition the zipper connectors 616 at 90 degrees relative to each otherto accommodate attachment with three other net segments 605, oralternatively, the hub connector portion 602 may be flexed to position apair of zipper connectors 616 at approximately 120 degrees relative toeach other to accommodate attachment with two other net segments 605.

FIGS. 22-23 depicts yet another embodiment, which is a slight variationof the net system 600 depicted in FIGS. 18-21 . In particular, the netsystem 700 in FIGS. 22 and 23 shows several net modules 702, 704, withone net module 704 including an integrated hub connector portion 706,comprised of a flap 708, with the zipper connectors 710 being connectedto respective surface of the hub connector portion 706. In this respect,the hub connector portion 706 may be connected to a net 712, and mayinclude separate first, second, and third surfaces, each of whichincludes a respective zipper connector 710 extending therefrom. In oneembodiment, the first, second, and third surfaces are generallyperpendicular to each other, although it is contemplated that otherconfigurations may be included within the scope of the presentdisclosure. Each zipper connector 710 may be connected to the flap 708via a mounting strip or other structure, which may allow the zipperconnector 710 to pivot relative to the flap 708 to achieve a desiredangular orientation relative to the flap 708 to facilitate connectionwith other nets, as has been described in more detail above.

The particulars shown herein are by way of example only for purposes ofillustrative discussion, and are not presented in the cause of providingwhat is believed to be most useful and readily understood description ofthe principles and conceptual aspects of the various embodiments of thepresent disclosure. In this regard, no attempt is made to show any moredetail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of thedifferent features of the various embodiments, the description takenwith the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how thesemay be implemented in practice.

What is claimed is:
 1. A net system comprising: a central hub having: amain body extending along a longitudinal axis and having an exposedupper end and an opposing exposed lower end; and a plurality oflongitudinal hub connectors in spaced relation to each other, eachlongitudinal hub connector having an upper end adjacent the upper end ofthe main body and a lower end adjacent the lower end of the main body,each longitudinal hub connector extending continuously between its upperend and its lower end; a first net module including a first net havingan upper end and a lower end, and a first longitudinal net connectorconnected to the first net, the first longitudinal net connector havingan upper end adjacent the upper end of the first net and a lower endadjacent the lower end of the first net, each first longitudinal netconnector extending continuously between its upper end and its lowerend; and a second net module including a second net having an upper endand a lower end, and a second longitudinal net connector connected tothe second net, the second longitudinal net connector having an upperend adjacent the upper end of the second net and a lower end adjacentthe lower end of the second net, each second longitudinal net connectorextending continuously between its upper end and its lower end; thefirst and second longitudinal net connectors being configured to bedetachably engageable to respective ones of the plurality oflongitudinal hub connectors to facilitate connection of the first andsecond net modules to the hub connector.
 2. The net system recited inclaim 1, wherein each longitudinal hub connector includes a zipperconnector.
 3. The net system recited in claim 2, wherein the firstlongitudinal net connector includes a zipper connector.
 4. The netsystem recited in claim 3, wherein the second longitudinal net connectorincludes a zipper connector.
 5. The net system recited in claim 1,wherein the main body is cylindrical in shape and defines a centralopening extending from the exposed upper end to the exposed lower end.6. The net system recited in claim 1, wherein the main body and thefirst net are sized such that when the main body is connected to thefirst net portion, the upper end of the main body is coplanar with theupper end of the first net and the lower end of the main body iscoplanar with the lower end of the first net.
 7. The net system recitedin claim 1, wherein the main body is configured to be disposable intension when connected to both the first net and the second net.
 8. Thenet system recited in claim 1, wherein the main body is formed of aflexible material.
 9. A net system comprising: a central hub having aplurality of longitudinal hub connectors in spaced relation to eachother, each longitudinal hub connector having an upper end and a lowerend, each longitudinal hub connector extending continuously between itsupper end and its lower end; and a plurality of net modules, each netmodule having a net and a longitudinal net connector connected to thenet, each longitudinal net connector being detachably engageable to arespective one of the plurality of longitudinal hub connectors.
 10. Thenet system recited in claim 9, wherein: the central hub includes anupper end and an opposing lower end; each net module includes an upperend and an opposing lower end; the central hub and the plurality of netmodules being configured such that the upper end of each net module iscoplanar with the upper end of the central hub when each net module isconnected to the central hub, and the lower end of each net module iscoplanar with the lower end of the central hub when each net module isconnected to the central hub.
 11. The net system recited in claim 9,wherein the plurality of longitudinal hub connectors includes threelongitudinal hub connectors.
 12. The net system recited in claim 9,wherein the plurality of longitudinal hub connectors includes fourlongitudinal hub connectors.
 13. The net system recited in claim 9,wherein each longitudinal hub connector includes a zipper connector. 14.A net system comprising: a first net module including a first net havingan upper end and a lower end, and a hub connector portion integrallyconnected to the first net, the hub connector portion includes aplurality of longitudinal hub connectors in spaced relation to eachother, each longitudinal hub connector having an upper end adjacent theupper end of the first net and a lower end adjacent the lower end of thefirst net, each longitudinal hub connector extending continuouslybetween its upper end and its lower end; and a second net moduleincluding a second net having an upper end and a lower end, and a secondlongitudinal net connector connected to the second net, the secondlongitudinal net connector having an upper end adjacent the upper end ofthe second net and a lower end adjacent the lower end of the second net,the second longitudinal net connector extending continuously between itsupper end and its lower end, the second longitudinal net connector beingconfigured to be detachably engageable to a respective one of theplurality of longitudinal hub connectors to facilitate connection of thesecond net module to the first net module.
 15. The net system recited inclaim 14, further comprising a third net module including a third nethaving an upper end and a lower end, and a third longitudinal netconnector connected to the third net, the third longitudinal netconnector having an upper end adjacent the upper end of the third netand a lower end adjacent the lower end of the third net, the thirdlongitudinal net connector extending continuously between its upper endand its lower end, the third longitudinal net connector being configuredto be detachably engageable to a respective one of the plurality oflongitudinal hub connectors to facilitate connection of the third netmodule to the first net module concurrently with the second net module.16. The net system recited in claim 15, further comprising a fourth netmodule including a fourth net having an upper end and a lower end, and afourth longitudinal net connector connected to the fourth net, thefourth longitudinal net connector having an upper end adjacent the upperend of the fourth net and a lower end adjacent the lower end of thefourth net, the fourth longitudinal net connector extending continuouslybetween its upper end and its lower end, the fourth longitudinal netconnector being configured to be detachably engageable to a respectiveone of the plurality of longitudinal hub connectors to facilitateconnection of the fourth net module to the first net module concurrentlywith the second net module and the third net module.
 17. The net systemrecited in claim 14, wherein each longitudinal hub connector includes azipper connector.
 18. The net system recited in claim 14, wherein thehub connector portion includes a first surface and an opposing secondsurface, the plurality of longitudinal hub connectors being connected tothe first surface.
 19. The net system recited in claim 14, wherein theplurality of longitudinal hub connectors are connected to respectivesurfaces of the hub connector portion.